China- US strategic dialogue begins

Source: CCTV.com | 11-09-2006 13:51

The China-US strategic dialogue has become an important platform for exchanging views on major regional and international issues. Li Ying takes a closer look back at some highlights of the three round of talks.

The DPRK nuclear issue is a common concern for both sides for the just concluded round of talks.

Ahead of this round of dialogue, Burns also visited Japan and South Korea to coordinate efforts to enable the resumption of the six-party talks. In Seoul, the US and South Korea affirmed that they would not recognize the DPRK as a nuclear power.

The inaugural round of the China-US strategic dialogue was held in August 2005. It was the first time since the two countries forged diplomatic ties that a regular high-level dialogue mechanism was set up. Analysts reckon that dialogue in 2005 brought China-US cooperation to a whole new level.

The second round was held in December last year in Washington. During the talks, China reiterated its strategy of peaceful development. Both sides agreed that it is important for China and the US to take a constructive attitude to view and know each other in the new international situation. They acknowledged that common interests and areas of cooperation between China and the US are increasing, and the two sides' relationship stretches far beyond the bilateral domain. They also agreed that both sides should view bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective and grasp the mainstream of bilateral relations based on their common interests.

Chinese analysts say the China-US strategic dialogue focuses on issues crucial to the future development of bilateral relations. Through the dialogue, both sides hope to understand each other's bottom line on issues related to state security and basic interests, so that they can avoid misunderstanding or even conflicts in exchanges.

Editor:Sun Luying